Our photo contest is open to ACA members as well as non-members. We have opened the contest to everyone who love cichlids however we would encourage everyone to become members of the ACA. If you love cichlids the American Cichlid Association is for you!
Rules:
1. All photos must depict a cichlid or cichlids in an aquatic environment;
2. An individual may submit up to 3 photos per month;
3. All entries must be appropriate. The ACA reserves the right to remove any entries that are offensive or inappropriate for the contest;
4. By entering a photo you are acknowledging that you are the photographer and copyright holder. You also grant the ACA the right to reproduce the image in any medium without limitations. The ACA will not use your photo for profit and you retain the copyright of your work;
5. Entries are to be submitted and uploaded at the Cichlid Room Companion forum under the ACA photo contest forum.
You will have to attach your photo to a post. Picture size limits: 256kb per picture and maximum size 1,200 pixels width- must be jpeg file. All links to pictures in other servers will be deleted and wont be considered for the contest.
6. Digital editing/enhancements are permitted, but any images significantly modified or appearing unnatural will be disqualified;
7. No borders, decorative effects, logos, watermarks, signatures or text (including fish or photographers name) should be added to the image;
8. All entries must be submitted before assigned deadline;
9. Winner will be determined by a panel of ACA judges;
10. Winners will be announced at the start of each new month;

Judging:
Your photos will be reviewed by a panel of ACA judges. Each month that panel of judges may change but your work will be graded every month on the following: Clarity, Composition and Color using a five point system for each category. Similar to how tropical fish shows are judged. There will also “on occasion” be times where judges will give their feedback, pointers and suggestions. Many times the difference between 1st place and 2nd place is very slim and hard to see by competing contestants. When the opportunity presents itself, we will try to break down the differences in an effort to help improve your craft!

Prize:
1st place winners will receive an ACA trophy with their name and the month and year they won the award as well as an ACA certificate. Contestants coming in 2nd-3rd place will receive ribbons and an ACA certificate. Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery. Prizes are subject to change without notice.

Enjoy yourself and have fun! Use the photo contest to show your love of cichlids and promote the hobby to a larger audience!!

PLEASE NOTE: Keep all your entries in the 1 thread set up for that month. (edited by admin)